Many students, parents, and music appreciators gathered on the first of December to watch the annual Sounds of Christmas concert performed in Boswell Hall. The performance featured jazz and traditional chorales alongside orchestral band performances.
The choral performers and wind symphony played a three-hour set for a crowd of 300. The performers played upon a festive holiday stage illuminated by Christmas lights, wreathes, and even a Christmas tree.
The musicians brought forth the magic of the holiday season by playing many classics including “Frosty the Snowman” and “O Holy Night.” The choral singers also performed foreign pieces, opening with the Zimbabwe greeting, “Sorida,” and later performing the French song “Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella.”
The diverse music covered a multitude of holidays from Hanukah to Christmas.
The choral jazz performers put a twist on classic Christmas songs by performing more upbeat versions. The jazz choir performed a swing rendition of “Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!” The musicians also did a piece arranged by Kirby Shaw called “Jolly Old St. Nicholas.”
“We like to approach a more adventurous take on traditional Christmas songs,” said Max Mendez, NIC chorale conductor.
The Wind Symphony brought pieces such as “Finale for a Winter Festival” to the stage under conductor Terry M.L Jones. They also preformed an arrangement by Julian Bond, “Fantasia on Silent Night.” The symphony proved to be loud and powerful, but they also played very peaceful and intricate pieces that created a sense for the holiday’s true meaning.
The wind symphony and the cardinal chorale ended the night by performing together for a holiday sing-along and a visit from Santa. Much of the crowd participated and kept the beat along with the songs.
Both the wind symphony and choral singers collaborated in harmonious and melodic holiday pieces.
The NIC choral and symphony students revealed the true power and meaning of the season. Holiday music can be exciting and upbeat; it can be slow but beautiful. No matter what holiday is celebrated, these talented performers proved that good music will always be there to bring cheer and happiness to the season.
